Energy Audit and Efficiency Optimization of an Examination Hall: A Case Study at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM)

Abstract

Energy efficiency in university buildings is increasingly important due to rising electricity demand, operating costs, and the need for sustainable building operation. Examination halls present particular challenges because occupancy, lighting, and air-conditioning requirements vary according to examination schedules. This study presents a preliminary energy audit of the F2 Upper examination hall at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) to assess its energy performance and identify practical energy-efficiency opportunities. The audit comprised site inspection, indoor environmental measurements, lighting assessment, equipment evaluation, and active-power logging. Illuminance, temperature, relative humidity, and air movement were measured at nine locations, while electrical power was monitored over nine days from 16 to 24 June 2025. Morning illuminance ranged from 308–528 lux, with all measurements exceeding the reported 300-lux requirement, whereas nighttime illuminance ranged from 254–555 lux, with two readings below the criterion. The installed lighting system recorded a lighting power density of 11.57 W/m², exceeding the reported MS 1525:2019 limit of 8 W/m² by 44.6%. Estimated lighting consumption was 91.584 kWh/day, corresponding to an annual cost of approximately RM12,201.28. Active power varied from 76.98 to 81.03 kW, with higher loading observed on Phase C. De-lamping, LED retrofitting, and daylighting with zoned controls were identified as potential efficiency measures. LED retrofitting was estimated to save 12,348 kWh/year and RM4,507.02/year, with a simple payback period of 2.63 years. The findings highlight practical opportunities for improving lighting efficiency and reducing energy consumption in university examination facilities.